It is ironic that second seed Karolina Pliskova is surprised about her breakthrough run to the second week of the French Open.
Despite being one of the highest ranked players in the women’s draw, the Czech doesn’t have many fond memories of Roland Garros. In fact, until this year she had never progressed beyond the second round at the French Open. It is for the reason why her 7-5, 6-1, win over German world No.73 Carina Witthoeft has been meet with a frank assessment from Pliskova.
“I’m surprised that I’m in the fourth round here. First time, obviously. And still I don’t think I’m playing the best tennis.” Pliskova said during her press conference.
Due to the misfortunes of other seeded players in her section, Pliskova is yet to face a stern test in the tournament. Her first three matches has seen the Czech triumph over opponents ranked outside the world Top-50. It is perhaps for this reason why she eager for improvement.
“I hate my backhand today. It was terrible, and that’s what I want to improve. The serve can always be better, but still I had some good serves.”
While the clay is not her best surface, the expectation is still high. On paper she is expected to blast her way past Verónica Cepede Royg in the fourth round. Royg, who is yet to reach the final of a WTA event, is only playing in a grand slam main draw for the third time in her career at the age of 25. Still, Pliskova is taking nothing for granted when it comes to playing on the troublesome red dirt.
“I think it’s different on clay. I don’t really feel like I am favourite on the paper, but not really on the clay. So every match for me is tough and it didn’t matter if she’s 60 or if she’s 300.” She said.
Besides her reservations, it is possible that Pliskova could reclaim the world No.1 ranking within the next week. To do so she needs to either win the tournament or reach the final without Simona Halep doing the same.
“I know about it. But it is not really my goal so far this tournament. I just came to win a few matches. That was my goal. And not really thinking about the rankings.” She concluded.
